Chances are, if you entered the Byrd Theatre this weekend without any comprehension of French language or customs, you left more enlightened and with a few words added to your vocabulary. French filmmakers and actors served novices and enthusiasts a taste of their culture at the 13th VCU French Film Festival. Subtitles and all, the films also offered moviegoers a break from the norm - big-budget Hollywood flicks. The festival's 26 films, half features and half shorts, included comedy, drama, romance and thrillers.
French Director Claude Miller told a group of students that small cameras can transform them into filmmakers. "All of you can make films because of this camera. When I was your age it was impossible because it was far too costly," said Miller, the permanent honorary president of the VCU French Film Festival.
VCU's annual Spring Fest kicks off Saturday with the first ever STRUT. fashion show. Kelli Lemon, assistant director for Programs and Events, said the fashion showcase, principally created by VCU students, will be like no other. "Our goal was to pick diversity that this school has, and showcase it," said Lemon.
ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) - Mitch Hedberg, a Minnesota-born comedian who worked in nightclubs, television and film, died in New Jersey, his family said. He was 37. Hedberg, who struggled with drugs and alcohol, died Wednesday in a hotel room in Livingston, N.J.
The buzz is Jose Canseco, Janice Dickinson, Omarosa and Pepa will be roommates soon. They B-list celebrities reportedly signed up to be on the next "Surreal Life," a VH1 reality series starring B-list celebrities. Whitney Houston's trip last week to rehab wasn't exactly voluntary.